Yes, it may be a little early, but it’s never too early to think of spring.

When snow starts flying in March, we know that it won’t be long before it melts. While my husband and I were on a study tour in Europe in March 1973, our kids and other family members were making snowmen and snow forts after a blizzard that dumped over 8 inches of snow on our farm.

By the time we got home, most of the snow was gone, leaving the yard and paths to the barn a muddy mess. It’s part of living in northwestern Pennsylvania, and for that matter, the entire region. Seasonal changes are great; you learn to take the good with the bad.

During one week this winter, we dealt with below-zero windchills one day, 55-degree high temperatures soon after.

It’s been a rough winter for me overall. I hope your winter has been better.

We are so fortunate to live near many health care facilities. I have spent this winter dealing with chronic back pain and arthritic knees. I am forever grateful for the services and care that I have received.

My husband and I have access to all our doctors through the hospital’s portal. I can send messages to the doctors or their staff, as well as see test results as they are posted on my chart.

Technology has brought health care right into our homes. During the pandemic, I had three doctors’ appointments via the hospital’s portal. This protected both me and the doctors from unnecessary exposure.

Soon we will be moving into March. We will know if Punxsutawney Phil has seen his shadow, and the Super Bowl will have long passed.

St. Patrick’s Day will be the next celebration. Enjoy wearing green and go to the nearest parade and partake in the merriment of the day.

As the winds of March begin to dry up the mud, the promise of spring and planting time won’t be far away.

Planting equipment is in the shop getting a tune-up before planting season. Seed and fertilizer are ready for those warm spring days.

As always, please be safe. Don’t take shortcuts that could have you ending up in the emergency room. Keep young children away from your tractors and other equipment. It is hard for drivers to see little ones who are up close to equipment.

Pace yourselves, so you don’t get too stressed out.

My hope is to be able to plant a few flowers when the chance of frost has passed, but that’s still a long way away. Still, the crocuses will be up soon; I hope!

Gregg writes from western Pennsylvania. She is the Pennsylvania 2019 Outstanding Woman in Agriculture and is a past president of American Agri-Women.